Commercial Aviation
Ariana Afghan Airlines Expands Fleet to Boost Afghanistan Tourism
Ariana Afghan Airlines acquires new aircraft to improve access to Afghanistan’s heritage sites amid rising tourism and economic growth.
Afghanistan is poised for a significant transformation in its tourism sector, driven by Ariana Afghan Airlines’ recent announcement to acquire two Airbus A330s and two Boeing 737s. This move is more than a routine fleet upgrade; it is a calculated investment in facilitating greater access to Afghanistan’s celebrated heritage sites and archaeological wonders. The timing is notable, as the country experiences a gradual increase in foreign tourism, with nearly 9,000 international visitors in 2024 and almost 3,000 in the first three months of 2025. Coupled with projected tourism receipts of $189 million by 2028, up from $167 million in 2023, this strategic expansion could reshape Afghanistan’s position in the global tourism market.
The airline’s modernization comes at a pivotal moment for Afghanistan. Improved connectivity is expected to make historic and cultural destinations, such as Herat, Bamiyan, and Ghazni, more accessible to international visitors. These aircraft acquisitions are part of a broader vision to overcome longstanding barriers that have limited tourism and to leverage Afghanistan’s rich cultural legacy for economic and social development.
This article explores the historical context of Ariana Afghan Airlines, the details of its fleet expansion, Afghanistan’s unique tourism potential, and the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead as the nation seeks to position itself as a key cultural tourism destination in Central Asia.
Ariana Afghan Airlines, founded in 1955, is Afghanistan’s oldest and largest airline, operating from Kabul International Airport. The airline has long been a vital link between Afghanistan and the global community, serving as a lifeline during periods of conflict and isolation. Its history reflects the broader political and economic shifts within the country, from sanctions and regime changes to periods of international engagement and reconstruction.
The 1990s were particularly challenging for Ariana, as international sanctions and the Taliban’s control reduced its fleet to a handful of aircraft and led to the suspension of overseas operations. By 2001, the airline was grounded entirely, with reports indicating its use for non-commercial purposes under the Taliban regime. The post-2001 period brought recovery, supported by international aid, including three ex-Air India Airbus A300s gifted by India.
Despite lifting UN sanctions and resuming flights, Ariana faced ongoing restrictions, notably an EU-wide ban due to safety concerns, which remains in effect as of December 2024. The airline’s operations have been repeatedly disrupted by political developments, most recently the Taliban’s return to power in 2021, which led to the suspension and gradual resumption of domestic flights. Today, Ariana’s modernization efforts reflect both the aspirations and the constraints of Afghanistan’s aviation sector.
As of June 2025, Ariana Afghan Airlines operates a modest fleet: three Airbus A310-300s, one Boeing 737-400, and one Boeing 737-500. This limited capacity has prompted the airline to pursue an ambitious expansion, with plans to acquire two Airbus A330s and two Boeing 737s. These aircraft will enable Ariana to serve larger passenger volumes and extend its reach to international markets, especially for tourists seeking Afghanistan’s heritage sites.
The acquisition strategy has evolved over several years. In early 2024, Ariana issued a request for proposals for six new aircraft, including wide-body and turboprop models. Prior attempts included bids for Boeing 737-800s and Airbus A330-200s, with detailed procurement requirements reflecting the complexities of international transactions under Afghanistan’s current political circumstances. Financially, the airline’s modernization represents a significant commitment, with previous statements indicating readiness to invest $50 million in new planes. This investment underscores the government’s recognition of aviation’s central role in tourism development and economic recovery.
“The aim is to raise the capacity of Ariana Airlines for launching competition among other aviation companies as a governmental enterprise in the long term.” – Afghanistan Civil Aviation Authority spokesman Qasim Rahimi
Afghanistan is home to some of the world’s most significant cultural and historical sites, many of which have been recognized as global heritage treasures. The Buddhas of Bamiyan, despite their destruction in 2001, continue to draw visitors to the Bamiyan valley, a region rich in Buddhist and pre-Islamic history. The ancient city of Herat, the historic centers of Kandahar and Ghazni, and the archaeological remains of Balkh offer deep insights into the civilizations that have shaped Central Asia.
Natural wonders complement these historic sites. Band-e-Amir National Park, with its striking blue lakes, and Wakhan National Park, located in a remote corridor bordering several countries, are increasingly being recognized for their ecological and scenic value. These destinations, alongside urban cultural sites, form the backbone of Afghanistan’s tourism offering.
The government’s approach to preserving and promoting these sites includes developing systematic restoration programs, training technical teams, and seeking international support. However, infrastructure limitations and the need for improved accessibility remain significant barriers, barriers that Ariana’s new fleet aims to address.
Afghanistan’s tourism industry, once thriving in the 1970s, is gradually recovering from decades of conflict and instability. Recent data shows nearly 9,000 foreign tourists visited in 2024, with almost 3,000 arrivals in the first quarter of 2025. The primary source markets include China and the United States, with American travelers showing renewed interest in Afghanistan’s culture and history.
The government has streamlined visa processes, and flights from hubs like Dubai and Istanbul now operate several times a week. Despite these improvements, challenges remain: the lack of international recognition for the current government complicates visa issuance, and security incidents, such as attacks in Bamiyan, continue to pose risks.
The role of digital media is increasingly important. The Taliban government actively promotes positive tourism content created by international visitors, leveraging social media to counter negative perceptions and attract new travelers. This approach, while effective in some respects, does not fully address underlying security and policy concerns.
“Tourist visas are relatively easy to obtain, with flights from major international transit hubs such as Dubai and Istanbul operating several times weekly.” – Travel industry analysis
The economic impact of tourism in Afghanistan is significant, with receipts projected to reach $189 million by 2028. Although the sector has experienced long-term decline, recent growth signals a potential turning point. Tourism is interconnected with multiple economic sectors, including transportation, hospitality, food, handicrafts, and cultural industries. Employment generation is a key benefit, particularly for youth, ethnic minorities, and marginalized groups. The expansion of tourism infrastructure, hotels, transportation, and services, creates jobs and stimulates local economies. Artisanal crafts and local products also gain new markets through tourism, supporting small enterprises and cultural preservation.
However, realizing these benefits requires substantial investment in infrastructure, training, and policy support. The private sector has opportunities to participate in tourism development, but this depends on government facilitation and improvements in the regulatory environment.
Afghanistan’s tourism ambitions are tempered by several persistent challenges. The lack of international recognition for the current government complicates diplomatic engagement and limits access to global tourism markets. Security remains a concern, with incidents targeting both foreign and local tourists, and ongoing threats from extremist groups.
Gender-related restrictions present ethical and practical challenges. While foreign women are permitted to visit certain sites, Afghan women face significant limitations, including bans on visiting parks and gyms. These policies have drawn international criticism and may deter some potential visitors.
Infrastructure deficits, ranging from airport capacity to ground transportation and hospitality services, constrain the industry’s growth. Addressing these gaps will require coordinated investment and international cooperation, particularly as Ariana’s new aircraft increase the flow of visitors to heritage sites.
“The tourism sector holds promise for generating millions of significant employment opportunities in Afghanistan, offering prospects for young people, ethnic minorities, women, and marginalized communities.” – Development analysis
Afghanistan’s geographic position has gained new importance as regional conflicts and airspace restrictions alter global flight paths. The country’s airspace is now a preferred route for airlines seeking to avoid Middle Eastern and Russian airspace, resulting in a marked increase in overflights.
Overflight fees, previously set at $700 per flight, represent a valuable revenue stream for Afghanistan. However, the collection and management of these funds are disputed, with international organizations suspending payments due to sanctions, despite Taliban claims of significant earnings.
The surge in overflights highlights Afghanistan’s potential role as a regional aviation hub, but also underscores the need for robust air traffic management and infrastructure improvements to safely accommodate increased traffic. Ariana Afghan Airlines’ fleet expansion marks a significant step in Afghanistan’s efforts to revitalize its tourism sector and reconnect with the global community. By improving access to the country’s unparalleled cultural and natural heritage, the airline’s modernization has the potential to drive economic growth, create jobs, and foster cross-cultural understanding.
The path forward is complex, requiring sustained investment, international cooperation, and policy reforms to address security, infrastructure, and social challenges. If these hurdles can be overcome, Afghanistan could emerge as a unique and compelling destination for cultural tourism, leveraging its storied past to build a more prosperous and connected future.
What new aircraft is Ariana Afghan Airlines acquiring? How many foreign tourists visited Afghanistan recently? What are the main challenges facing Afghanistan’s tourism sector? Which are the most popular heritage sites in Afghanistan? What is the projected economic impact of tourism in Afghanistan? Sources: Travel and Tour World, CH-Aviation, Reuters, Afghanistan Civil Aviation Authority
Afghanistan’s Aviation-Tourism Renaissance: Ariana Afghan Airlines’ Strategic Fleet Expansion to Unlock Cultural Heritage Access
Historical Context of Ariana Afghan Airlines and Afghanistan’s Aviation Industry
Fleet Modernization and Aircraft Acquisitions
Afghanistan’s Heritage Sites and Tourism Potential
Tourism Industry Recovery and Recent Trends
Economic Impact and Employment Opportunities
Challenges and Opportunities in Afghanistan’s Tourism Sector
Regional Aviation Context and Airspace Utilization
Conclusion
FAQ
Ariana Afghan Airlines plans to purchase two Airbus A330s and two Boeing 737s to expand its fleet and improve access to Afghanistan’s heritage sites.
Nearly 9,000 foreign tourists visited Afghanistan in 2024, with almost 3,000 arrivals in the first three months of 2025.
Key challenges include lack of international recognition, security concerns, infrastructure deficits, and social restrictions, particularly those affecting women.
Notable sites include the Buddhas of Bamiyan, Herat, Kandahar, Ghazni towers, Balkh archaeological relics, Band-e-Amir National Park, and Wakhan National Park.
Tourism receipts are projected to reach $189 million by 2028, with the sector offering significant potential for job creation and economic diversification.
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
Qanot Sharq Receives First Airbus A321XLR in Central Asia
Qanot Sharq becomes Central Asia’s first operator of the Airbus A321XLR, expanding long-haul routes to North America and Asia from Tashkent.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and Qanot Sharq.
On December 19, 2025, Qanot Sharq, Uzbekistan’s first private airline, officially took delivery of its first Airbus A321XLR (Extra Long Range) aircraft. The delivery, facilitated through a lease agreement with Air Lease Corporation (ALC), marks a historic milestone for aviation in the region, as Qanot Sharq becomes the launch operator of the A321XLR in Central Asia and the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS).
This aircraft is the first of four confirmed A321XLR units destined for the carrier. According to the official announcement, the airline intends to utilize the aircraft’s extended range to open new long-haul markets that were previously inaccessible to single-aisle jets, including planned services to North America and East Asia.
The newly delivered A321XLR is powered by CFM International LEAP-1A engines and features a two-class layout designed to balance capacity with passenger comfort on longer sectors. The aircraft accommodates a total of 190 passengers.
In addition to the seating configuration, the aircraft is fitted with Airbus’ “Airspace” cabin interior. Key features include customizable LED lighting, lower cabin altitude settings to reduce jet lag, and XL overhead bins that provide 60% more storage capacity compared to previous generation aircraft.
Nosir Abdugafarov, the owner of Qanot Sharq, emphasized the strategic importance of the delivery in a statement regarding the fleet expansion.
“The A321XLR’s exceptional range and efficiency will allow us to offer greater comfort and convenience while maintaining highly competitive operating economics.”
, Nosir Abdugafarov, Owner of Qanot Sharq
The introduction of the A321XLR allows Qanot Sharq to deploy a narrowbody aircraft on routes typically reserved for widebody jets. With a range of up to 4,700 nautical miles (8,700 km), the airline plans to connect Tashkent with destinations in Europe, Asia, and North America.
According to the airline’s strategic roadmap, the new fleet will support route expansion to Sanya (China) and Busan (South Korea). Furthermore, the airline has explicitly outlined plans to serve New York (JFK) via Budapest. While the A321XLR has impressive range, the distance between Tashkent and New York (approximately 5,500 nm) necessitates a technical stop. Budapest will serve as this intermediate point, potentially allowing the airline to tap into passenger demand between Central Europe and the United States, subject to regulatory approvals. AJ Abedin, Senior Vice President of Marketing at Air Lease Corporation, noted the geographical advantages available to the airline.
“Qanot Sharq is uniquely positioned to unlock the full potential of the A321XLR due to its strategic location in Uzbekistan, bridging Europe and Asia.”
, AJ Abedin, SVP Marketing, Air Lease Corporation
The delivery of the A321XLR signals a distinct shift in the competitive landscape of Uzbek aviation. Until now, long-haul flights from Tashkent,specifically to the United States,have been the exclusive domain of the state-owned flag carrier, Uzbekistan Airways, which utilizes Boeing 787 Dreamliners for non-stop service.
By adopting the A321XLR, Qanot Sharq appears to be pursuing a “long-haul low-cost” hybrid model. The A321XLR burns approximately 30% less fuel per seat than previous-generation aircraft, allowing the private carrier to operate long routes with significantly lower trip costs than its state-owned competitor. While the one-stop service via Budapest will result in a longer total travel time compared to Uzbekistan Airways’ direct flights, the lower operating costs could allow Qanot Sharq to offer more competitive fares, appealing to price-sensitive travelers and labor migrants.
Furthermore, the choice of Budapest as a stopover is strategic. If Qanot Sharq secures “Fifth Freedom” rights,which are currently a subject of regulatory negotiation,it could monetize the empty seats on the Budapest-New York sector, effectively competing in the transatlantic market while serving its primary base in Central Asia.
Sources: Airbus Press Release, Air Lease Corporation
Qanot Sharq Becomes First Central Asian Operator of Airbus A321XLR
Aircraft Configuration and Capabilities
Strategic Network Expansion
AirPro News Analysis: The Long-Haul Low-Cost Shift
Sources
Photo Credit: Airbus
Airlines Strategy
Kenya Airways Plans Secondary Hub in Accra with Project Kifaru
Kenya Airways advances plans for a secondary hub at Accra’s Kotoka Airport, leveraging partnerships and regional aircraft to boost intra-African connectivity.
This article summarizes reporting by AFRAA and official statements from Kenya Airways.
Kenya Airways (KQ) is moving forward with strategic plans to establish a secondary operational hub at Kotoka International Airport (ACC) in Accra, Ghana. According to reporting by the African Airlines Association (AFRAA) and recent company statements, this initiative represents a critical pillar of “Project Kifaru,” the airlines‘s three-year recovery and growth roadmap.
The proposed expansion aims to deepen intra-African connectivity by positioning Accra as a pivotal node for West African operations. Rather than launching a wholly-owned subsidiary, a model that requires heavy capital expenditure, Kenya Airways intends to utilize a partnership-driven approach, leveraging existing relationships with regional carriers to feed long-haul networks.
While the Kenyan government formally requested permission for the hub in May 2025, Kenya Airways CEO Allan Kilavuka confirmed in December 2025 that the plan remains under active study. A final decision on the full execution of the project is expected in 2026.
The core of the Accra strategy involves basing aircraft directly in West Africa to serve high-demand regional routes. According to details emerging from the planning phase, Kenya Airways intends to deploy three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft to Kotoka International Airport. These aircraft will facilitate regional connections, feeding passengers into the carrier’s long-haul network and supporting the logistics needs of the region.
This operational shift marks a departure from the traditional “hub-and-spoke” model centered exclusively on Nairobi. By establishing a presence in Ghana, KQ aims to capture traffic in a market currently dominated by competitors such as Ethiopian Airlines (via its ASKY partner in Lomé) and Air Côte d’Ivoire.
A key component of this strategy is the airline’s collaboration with Ghana-based Africa World Airlines (AWA). Kenya Airways signed a codeshare agreement with AWA in May 2022. This partnership allows KQ to connect passengers from its Nairobi-Accra service to AWA’s domestic and regional network, covering destinations like Kumasi, Takoradi, Lagos, and Abuja.
Industry observers note that this “capital-light” model reduces the financial risks associated with starting a new airline from scratch. Instead of competing directly on every thin route, KQ can rely on AWA to provide feed traffic while focusing its own metal on key trunk routes. The push for a West African hub comes as Kenya Airways navigates a complex financial recovery. The airline reported a significant milestone in the 2024 full financial year, posting an operating profit of Ksh 10.5 billion and a net profit of Ksh 5.4 billion, its first profit in 11 years. This resurgence provided the initial confidence to pursue the growth phase of Project Kifaru.
However, the first half of 2025 presented renewed challenges. The airline reported a Ksh 12.2 billion loss for the period, attributed largely to currency volatility and the grounding of its Boeing 787 fleet due to global spare parts shortages. These financial realities underscore the necessity of the proposed low-capital expansion model in Accra.
The strategy focuses on collaboration with existing African carriers rather than creating a new airline from scratch.
, Summary of Kenya Airways’ strategic approach
The viability of the Accra hub relies heavily on the Single African Air Transport Market (SAATM) and “Fifth Freedom” rights, which allow an airline to fly between two foreign countries. West Africa has been a leader in implementing these protocols, making Accra a legally feasible location for a secondary hub.
Furthermore, the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) secretariat is headquartered in Accra. Kenya Airways is positioning itself to support the trade bloc by facilitating the movement of people and cargo between East and West Africa. The airline has already introduced Boeing 737-800 freighters to serve key destinations including Lagos, Dakar, Freetown, and Monrovia.
The decision to delay a final “go/no-go” confirmation until 2026 suggests a prudent approach by Kenya Airways management. While the West African market is lucrative, it is also saturated with aggressive competitors like Air Peace and the well-entrenched ASKY/Ethiopian Airlines alliance. By opting for a partnership model with Africa World Airlines rather than a full subsidiary, KQ avoids the “cash burn” trap that led to the collapse of previous pan-African airline ventures. If successful, this could serve as a blueprint for other mid-sized African carriers looking to expand without overleveraging their balance sheets.
What aircraft will be based in Accra? When will the hub become operational? How does this affect the Nairobi hub?
Kenya Airways Advances Plans for Secondary Hub in Accra Under ‘Project Kifaru’
Operational Strategy: The ‘Mini-Hub’ Model
Partnership with Africa World Airlines
Financial Context and ‘Project Kifaru’
Regulatory Landscape and Competition
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
Current plans indicate that Kenya Airways intends to base three Embraer E190-E1 aircraft at Kotoka International Airport.
While planning is underway and government requests have been filed, a final decision on full execution is not expected until 2026.
Nairobi (Jomo Kenyatta International Airport) remains the primary hub. The Accra facility is designed as a secondary node to improve regional connectivity and feed traffic back into the global network.
Sources
Photo Credit: Embraer – E190
Commercial Aviation
Derazona Helicopters Receives First H160 for Energy Missions in Southeast Asia
Airbus delivers the first H160 to Derazona Helicopters in Indonesia, enhancing offshore oil and gas transport with advanced fuel-efficient technology.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus Helicopters.
On December 19, 2025, Airbus Helicopters officially delivered the first H160 rotorcraft to Derazona Helicopters (PT. Derazona Air Service) in Jakarta, Indonesia. According to the manufacturer’s announcement, this delivery represents a significant regional milestone, as Derazona becomes the first operator in Southeast Asia to utilize the H160 specifically for energy sector missions, including offshore oil and gas transport.
The handover marks the culmination of a strategic acquisition process that began with an initial order in April 2021. Derazona, a historic Indonesian aviation company established in 1971, intends to deploy the medium-class helicopter for a variety of critical missions, ranging from offshore transport to utility operations and commercial passenger services.
The introduction of the H160 into the Indonesian market signals a shift toward modernizing aging fleets in the archipelago. Derazona Helicopters stated that the aircraft will play a pivotal role in their expansion within the oil and gas sector, a primary economic driver for the region.
In a statement regarding the delivery, Ramadi Widyardiono, Director of Production at Derazona Helicopters, emphasized the operational advantages of the new airframe:
“The arrival of our first H160 marks an exciting chapter for Derazona Helicopters. As the pioneer operator of this aircraft for energy missions in Southeast Asia, we are eager to deploy its unique capabilities to serve our various clients with the highest levels of safety and efficiency. The H160’s proven performance will be key to reinforcing our position as a leader in helicopter services in Southeast Asia.”
Airbus executives echoed this sentiment, highlighting the aircraft’s suitability for the demanding geography of Indonesia. Regis Magnac, Vice President Head of Energy, Leasing and Global Accounts at Airbus Helicopters, noted the importance of this partnership:
“We are proud to see the H160 enter service in Southeast Asia, cementing our relationship with Derazona as they become the region’s launch customer for energy missions. The H160 represents a true generational leap, built to be an efficient, reliable, and comfortable workhorse, perfectly suited for the demanding operational requirements of the Indonesian energy sector.”
According to technical data provided by Airbus, the H160 is designed to replace previous-generation medium helicopters such as the AS365 Dauphin and H155. The aircraft incorporates several proprietary technologies aimed at improving safety and reducing environmental impact.
Key technical features cited in the release include: Airbus claims the H160 delivers a 15% reduction in fuel burn compared to previous generation engines, aligning with the energy sector’s increasing focus on reducing Scope 1 and 2 emissions in their logistics supply chains.
The delivery of the H160 to Derazona Helicopters reflects a broader trend we are observing across the Asia-Pacific aviation market: the prioritization of “eco-efficient” logistics. As oil and gas majors face stricter carbon reporting requirements, the pressure cascades down to their logistics providers.
By adopting the H160, Derazona is not merely upgrading its fleet age; it is positioning itself competitively to bid for contracts with energy multinationals that now weigh carbon footprint heavily in their tender processes. The move away from legacy airframes like the Bell 412 or Sikorsky S-76 toward next-generation composite aircraft suggests that fuel efficiency is becoming as critical a metric as payload capacity in the offshore sector.
Who is the operator of the new H160? What is the primary use of this aircraft? How does the H160 improve upon older helicopters? When was this specific aircraft ordered? Sources: Airbus Helicopters Press Release
Derazona Helicopters Becomes Southeast Asia’s First H160 Energy Operator
Modernizing Indonesia’s Energy Fleet
Technical Profile: The H160
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The operator is PT. Derazona Air Service (Derazona Helicopters), an Indonesian aviation company headquartered at Halim Perdanakusuma Airport, Jakarta.
It will be used primarily for offshore energy transport (supporting oil rigs), as well as utility missions and VIP transport.
The H160 offers a 15% reduction in fuel consumption, significantly lower noise levels due to Blue Edge™ blades, and advanced Helionix® avionics for improved safety.
Derazona originally placed the order for this H160 in April 2021.
Photo Credit: Airbus
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